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Your gut does more than help you digest food. It also affects your energy, comfort, and overall health. As you get older, gut problems can happen more often and may feel harder to manage. The good news is that with the right care, you can feel better and stay active.
Have questions about your gut health? Call us today at 1‑888‑341‑5030 (TTY: 711), Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 8:45 p.m. Central Time. For help finding in‑network providers, click Find a Provider. We’re here to help!
FIND A ProviderInflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and Aging
Living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) can change as you age. Over time, your body may digest food more slowly, absorb fewer nutrients, and take longer to heal. When IBD is added, symptoms may feel stronger and last longer.
IBD in older adults may cause:
- Ongoing stomach or belly pain
- Frequent diarrhea or sudden urges to use the bathroom
- Feeling very tired or weak
- Weight loss or trouble getting enough nutrients from food
IBD can make other health problems, such as heart disease, arthritis, or diabetes, harder to manage. If you take more than one medication, that can increase the chance of side effects or an upset stomach.
That’s why it’s important to talk openly with your healthcare provider. Together, you can review your symptoms, medications, and treatment options to find what works best for you.
Common Types of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) for People 65+
There are two main types of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Both can affect older adults and may come and go over time. With proper care, symptoms can often be managed.
Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis affects only the colon and rectum, also called the large intestine. It causes long‑lasting swelling and irritation in the gut.
Common symptoms include:
- Stomach or belly pain
- Sudden need to use the bathroom
- Diarrhea
- Blood in the stool
The exact cause is not known. Some people may go years without symptoms, while others have flare‑ups more often. Regular visits with your provider and taking medications as prescribed can help keep symptoms under control.
Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease most often affects the small intestine, but it can affect any part of the digestive system. It causes swelling deep inside the gut, which can make digestion harder.
Common symptoms include:
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain or cramping
- Weight loss
- Poor appetite
- Tiredness or weakness
In some cases, Crohn’s disease can cause blockages or infections in the gut. Early care and ongoing treatment are important, especially as you age.
Managing IBD as You Age
The good news is that many people age 65 and older live well with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). With the right care and support, symptoms can often be controlled. Staying involved in your health care is important.
You can take simple steps each day to help protect your gut and feel better:
- Take your medicines exactly as prescribed
- Tell your provider about any new or changing symptoms
- Choose foods that are gentle on your stomach
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Stay active with light exercise, such as walking
- Manage stress, which can affect digestion and trigger flare‑ups
Everyone’s body is different. It may take time for your provider to find the treatment that works best for you. If one treatment does not help, try not to feel discouraged. This is a normal part of managing IBD.
What to Expect at Your Doctor Visits
When you see your provider, they will ask questions about your symptoms and overall health. They may order tests to better understand what is going on in your gut. These tests may include:
- Stool tests to check for infection
- Blood tests to look for signs of inflammation or anemia
- Imaging tests, such as X‑rays or MRI scans
- Scope tests, such as:
· Endoscopy
· Colonoscopy
· Sigmoidoscopy
These tests help your provider choose the best treatment for you.
Treatment Options for IBD
Treatment for IBD may include:
- Medications to reduce swelling and control symptoms
- Surgery, in some cases
A key part of managing IBD is also eating a healthy, personalized diet. Your provider or dietitian may help you choose foods that are easier to digest and support your overall health.
Information contained in this communication is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your healthcare needs.
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